Gilbert S. Boers Jr.

Gilbert S. Boers Jr., 75, died Nov. 18, 2011, in Albuquerque, N.M., surrounded by his family. He was born July 29, 1936.

In his youth, he lived in Chicago and Arizona. He joined the Navy at age 17. After an honorable discharge, he worked in many different fields — mainly owning and operating car dealerships across Nevada and New Mexico.

From 1998 to 2007, he and his wife Ellen lived in Granite Shoals, where he contributed many hours serving the community in politics and on committees for the city. He also portrayed Santa Claus for underprivileged children.

Following in his grandfather’s and father’s footsteps, he felt honored to become a Mason with the Blazing Star Masonic Lodge No. 413 of Marble Falls. He held the offices of junior and senior steward and senior warden. His committee appointments were Steward, Charity, Sickness and Arbitration, Legal and By-Laws, and Finance and Budget. He was devoted to the Mason brotherhood, always volunteering when he was needed.

He served with loyalty, dignity and honor.

He and his wife moved to Albuquerque, N.M., in 2010 to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

He never met a stranger. He had a plethora of knowledge and could talk on any subject, conversing and holding the interest of small children to adults. He filled his life with music, reading, education, humor and spread his joy of life with everyone.

His favorite saying was “Be at peace,” and now he has fulfilled this goal for himself.

Along with his wife Ellen, survivors include his son Gilbert Boers and wife Emily; daughter Mary Kay and husband Paul; sisters Susan De La Rosa and Sally Summers; brother John David; and numerous stepchildren and grandchildren.

A Masonic service is Nov. 23 in Albuquerque.